Fairy Infestation
Wee folk have invaded Ann Arbor, Michigan
What started as a single curious door as multiplied to seven. Miniature, ornate entry ways have mysteriously appeared alongside the human-size portals in Ann Arbor’s business district — bringing increased business from adult and juvenile gawkers.

Illustrator Jonathon Wright is taking credit as the unofficial ‘elfin realtor’ and says the idea was sparked was a whimsical way to capture the imagination of the children attending his wife’s preschool. The response was so great. that it prompted him to add to the pixie population by constructing more of the delightful doors.

Wright thought the struggling business district was a likely place for otherworldy urban development, Wright added doors outside the Peacable Kingdom Toy Store and the vintage collectibles shop, Red Shoes. Soon the number grew to seven, and Wright has been most surprised by the fact humans are starting to leave tiny gifts like pennies, candy, and flowers for their unseen tenants. “I’d like to see them thrive, and that’s part of what I want to contribute,” he says. “Something that’s lasting and fun and that can maybe revitalize some interest in the downtown area.”

The fairy doors are definitely on my short list of best ideas of the year, although the people of Ann Arbor should have known that fairlyland denizens could help their struggling businesses — just ask the Shoemaker and his wife.